Volvo is moving towards an all-electric future and similarly is now offering its XC40 with only an electric powertrain. The XC40 was first launched with a diesel while later moving to a mild hybrid petrol while now you can buy the Recharge EV with a single motor as well as a dual motor configuration as well.


Volvo recently added the single motor configuration which lowers the price too. The XC40 Recharge single motor comes with 238hp and 420Nm along with a 69kWh battery pack with a claimed range of 475km (real world range is near 400km). Top speed is 180 km/h.


While the single motor is down on power when compared to the crazy fast dual motor, it feels quite quick when you first drive it. Acceleration is linear and brisk while it climbs onto big speeds quite easily. Hence, quick overtakes or sudden acceleration is very much there. There are no drive modes but there is an option to engage single pedal driving with regenerative braking. The regen braking, while not as strong as on the dual motor version, is enough to not use brakes at all; that said, it is not configurable.


While the dual motor is too quick and is for performance lovers, the single motor is enough for the first time luxury EV buyer. The ride despite big 19 inch wheels, is pretty good and is not firm at all while the handling is stable along with being easy to drive with its compact dimensions. It feels solid though and the ground clearance is also quite good so no worrying there. Inside, it is simple with no start/stop button and a portrait screen having all of the functions. The screen size isnt big but is slick and has a Google based infotainment system.


Volvo has not cut features though with only the 360 degree camera, Pixel headlamps and the fancy audio system being removed. You do get pretty much everything including dual powered seats, panoramic sunroof, rear camera, 7 airbags and more.


The XC40 Recharge single motor is priced at Rs 54.9 lakh and we think Volvo could have priced it lower still to create a larger gap between this and the dual motor version which is only near Rs 3 lakh more. That said, Volvo has not cut features and for those who do not need the performance of the dual motor, this single motor version is enough.


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